PATHOLOGIST A specialist in pathology who interprets and diagnoses the changes caused by disease in tissues and body fluids. PET SCAN Imaging test that looks for metabolically active areas in the body. PET scans are not as detailed as CT or MRI scans but can provide helpful information about the whole body. RECURRENCE The return of the melanoma. SURGICAL ONCOLOGIST A doctor who performs biopsies and other surgical procedures in cancer patients. SYSTEMIC TREATMENT Treatments that travel through the bloodstream, affecting cells throughout the body. Examples include immunotherapy and chemotherapy. ULTRASOUND A procedure that uses high-energy sound waves to look at tissues and organs inside the body. May also be used to evaluate a tumor. X-RAY Imaging test most often used to determine if melanoma has spread to the lungs.
MRI Imaging test used primarily to determine if melanoma has spread to the brain, spinal cord or liver. Unlike x-rays and CT scans, MRIs use radio waves and magnets to create pictures of the body. OCULAR ONCOLOGIST An eye cancer physician who provides comprehensive care for patients with eye tumors. Ocular oncologists are trained in ophthalmology and have completed specialized training in eye cancers. Ocular oncologists diagnose, treat and research a variety of malignancies that include the eye, eyelid and surrounding tissue. OPHTHALMOLOGIST A medical or osteopathic doctor who specializes in eye and vision care. An ophthalmologist diagnoses and treats eye diseases and is licensed to practice medicine and surgery. Many ophthalmologists are also involved in scientific research in eye diseases and disorders. OPTOMETRIST A health professional who provides primary vision care, sight testing and management of vision changes. An optometrist can perform eye exams, vision tests and detect certain eye abnormalities. An optometrist does not perform surgery.
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